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Ignoring liquor licensing laws proves costly for a new premises owner

Failing to ensure a valid liquor licence was in place ended up being an expensive lesson for the new owners of a licensed premises in regional Victoria.

The Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR) prosecuted Maddhus Pty Ltd for selling liquor without a licence after VCGLR Inspectors visited the premises in Cann River last year.

By failing to transfer the liquor licence from the previous owners or apply for a new licence, Maddhus Pty Ltd was found to be operating without a liquor licence which is a breach of the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 (the Act).

Last month the local Magistrates court heard the VCGLR’s prosecution and handed down a significant penalty, including a conviction and fine of $4000. The non-compliant operators were further ordered to pay the associated costs of the prosecution.

VCGLR’s Director of Compliance, Adam Ockwell, says this kind of behaviour is a clear breach of the laws governing the sale and supply of liquor and the court ordered penalty is a clear indication of the seriousness of the offence.

“The VCGLR’s website has a wealth of information and guidance material readily available for anyone unsure of their responsibilities. I encourage those involved in the industry to check our website regularly, contact the VCGLR or attend one of our Liquor Forums held across the State.

“I want to remind everyone that our Inspectors will be out and about this summer and will continue to monitor industry compliance, including in the regional areas of Victoria,” says Mr Ockwell.